The National Network For Fair Trade in India

Meet Our Agent For Change: Chinni Swamy

Chinni Swamy moved into PURKAL VILLAGE in the Himalayan foothills in 2001. Seeing the deplorable condition of women in the area she decided to empower them. A training programme was started teaching them patch work, applique and quilting. Soon the women formed themselves into self help groups. PURKAL Stree Shakti Samiti was registered in 2010. It now supports 180 women working from 3 centers. They make beautiful quilts, jackets, cushion covers, bags and pouches which are much appreciated by customers in India and abroad.
The artisans not only earn a comfortable livelihood but have also gained in confidence, acquired leadership and business skills and look forward to running their enterprise themselves.\